cyberspy network smashed

30 Mar 2009

Computer experts have blown apart an international cyberspy ring targeting politicians, diplomats and journalists.

GhostNet, which is believed to be based in China, infected 1,300 computers in 103 countries including the Dalai Lama's personal office, which was among those 'conclusively compromised'. Attackers are thought to have gained access to sensitive information.

In Britain, targets included the Indian High Commission, news agency Associated Press and the International Chamber of Shipping.

It is thought to be almost certain that documents are being removed without the targets' knowledge and webcams are being silently triggered.

The attack was launched in 2007 and has infected machines with software which enabled hackers to gain real-time control.

China has dismissed the claims as nonsense. The Information Welfare Monitor group said there were other suspects including big businesses and US or Russian Intelligence.

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